SCIEX has announced that its application team is actively developing a new LC-MS/MS method for screening the pesticide monofluoroacetic acid (MFA), also known as 1080, in milk and infant formula. This is in response to a food scare in New Zealand involving the possible contamination of milk with 1080.

The new LC-MS/MS method involves a simplified sample preparation procedure that does not require derivatization, can be done within a few hours, and allows detection of MFA at a concentration level below 10ng/mL in matrix, with excellent accuracy and reproducibility. The quantitative dynamic range stretches from 0.1ng/mL to 100ng/mL, allowing comprehensive quantitation across a breadth of concentrations, as shown by initial studies. Further experiments are planned to increase sensitivity, simplify sample preparation, and include an internal standard to correct low recoveries and matrix effects.

'As the 1080 threat can potentially damage the global food safety scene, our team of experts has responded quickly to develop a method that can be easily implemented,' said Vincent Paez, senior director, food, environmental & forensics testing, for SCIEX. 'It will enable laboratory scientists to quickly screen for the dangerous compound in batches of samples in a single experiment within a short time frame. As part of the food testing community, it is our mission to rapidly develop new analytical solutions as responses to food safety events.'